Letters 4-1-10

On October 26, 2009, we received the dreaded phone call at 3 a.m. that our son-in-law, Capt Kyle R. Van De Giesen, was tragically killed in a helicopter collision In Afghanistan. In an instant, our world crumbled around us. This was his last flight of an eight-month tour during his third deployment. He was due to return home six days later to his wife, our daughter Megan (three weeks away from giving birth to their son), and their daughter, Avery Grace. This beautiful family was eagerly awaiting their reunion followed by a three-year non-deployment assignment in June.

Obviously our pressing goal was to get to California, as quickly as possible, to begin the unenviable task of trying to comfort our daughter Megan. As the tragic news unfolded and spread rapidly, our family began to immediately receive what turned out to be sea of condolences. To characterize these condolences as overwhelming would be an understatement. Mere words cannot convey the depth of appreciation our family send to all of you.

Two weeks prior to this horrible tragedy, Paul was laid off, putting us in a fragile and emotional state to begin with. On behalf of our family, we thank each and every one of you for the tremendous outpouring of love and support. The beautiful thoughts, words and prayers conveyed through cards, notes and phone calls were and will continue to help lift our spirits. We also want to extend our sincere gratitude for the overwhelming financial contributions, which were an immeasurable mode of assistance.

2010 comes with a renewed hope that the Francis and Van De Giesen families and especially our daughter Megan will find some healing and comfort through the ever present love and support of family, friends and the community. Asking for more may appear selfish I know, but on behalf of both families and all military families, we ask you to continue to pray for and support all the men and women who risk their lives daily for our freedom and safety.

With still a very heavy heart, but an even more grateful one, we thank all of you.

Paul, Pam, Kerrie and Colleen Francis Cotuit

Lead us away from force

Editor’s note: A copy of this letter to President Barack Obama was sent to the newspaper.

In 1660, Quakers published the following statement:

“We utterly deny all outward wars and strife, and fightings with outward weapons, for any end, or under any pretense whatsoever; this is our testimony to the whole world.”

Yarmouth Friends Meeting (Quakers), in this tumultuous time, reaffirms our historical adherence to this eternal truth. We pray that you will lead this nation away from a reliance on force and follow the path exemplified by the life of the historic Jesus and the leaders of numerous religious faiths.

Further, we pray for your welfare, and that of the American people and the people of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq, as well as all those involved in the United Nations peace making activities.